Lawrence County launches counseling program for youths

Federal funds will pay for some of the costs.
By LAURE CIOFFI
VINDICATOR NEW CASTLE BUREAU
NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- Lawrence County is hoping to curb drug and alcohol abuse among young people with a new program.
The county's juvenile probation office is spearheading the education and outreach program, which started this week.
Classes of no more than 15 people are being held four consecutive nights each month at the Lawrence County DUI Program offices on East Washington Street.
The program aims to educate young people who are "at risk" for drug and alcohol use. It will be offered once a month.
Patrick Micco, the county's juvenile probation director, said young people arrested for alcohol and drug related offenses were included in adult programs, but those classes did not meet all of their needs.
The new program will address issues specific to the younger participants.
Referrals
Micco said referrals to the program can come from a variety of sources including district justices, juvenile probation and children's services. Micco said young people brought into the juvenile justice system for things other than alcohol and drugs may be admitted into the program if officials later learn there are alcohol and drug problems.
There is a $150 fee for the classes, but the county is using federal funding from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funds to pay for those who qualify under income guidelines. Others will perform community service in lieu of the fee, he said.
cioffi@vindy.com